ANNUAL REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR OF MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1871 Session I, G-05b

G.—No. sb.

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR OF MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

PEESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BY COMMAND OF HIS EXCELLENCY.

WELLINGTON.

1871.

Q.—Sa. Sb,

Lieut.-Colonel Habington to the Hon. D. McLean. Sic,— Militia and Volunteer Office, AVellington, Ist July, 1871. I have the honor to report that, on receipt of your letter informing me of my appointment as Inspector of Militia and A^olunteers, I proceeded to Wellington in October last, and assumed the duties of that office. As the Militia and Volunteer Forces differ so essentially in the two Islands, from the fact that in some districts of the North Island the Militia are called out either for actual service or training and exercise, while in tho South Island the Militia have never been embodied, I purpose dividing ray annual report into two separate classifications —Militia and Volunteers. MILITIA. The following districts were called out under the new Militia Act of 1870. Actual Service. Training and Exercise. Wairoa (Auckland) North Napier Waiuku South Napier Hamilton Wairoa (Hawke's Bay) Cambridge Rangitikei Alexandra Greytown White Cliffs Masterton New Plymouth Wellington. Cape Egtnont Patea Wanganui Poverty Bay Opotiki Tauranga. The Militia on active service and pay were reduced to the following strength in November last:— Officers and men : Taranaki, 40 ; Patea, 48 ; Poverty Bay, 12. These men were retained for the purpose of affording protection to the settlers in the exposed parts of their respective districts, holding the blockhouses and scouting. In order to facilitate the better working of all matters connected with the Militia and Volunteers, a period of twelve months, commencing on the Ist April, and ending 31st March, has been called the " Volunteer year." Officers commanding districts have been directed to furnish an annual report on the general state of the Militia and A rolunteers under their command. As the new Militia Act did not come into operation till November, the time over which this year's report extends is very limited. In the districts called out for "actual service "it has been left to the discretion of the commanding officers to drill the men, or only parade them quarterly for inspection of arms, according to local circumstances ; but in those called out for training and exercise, drill has taken place once a month. The working of the Militia Act is very unequal, owing to the varied occupations of the people, the distance they may have to come to parade, Ac. In or near the centres of population little or no hardship is caused by attendance at drill; whilst in those country districts where the population is greatly scattered, the Militia arc put to much inconvenience, loss of time, and expense, in having to travel long distances for parade. In some districts the want of roads and the difficult nature of the country render it almost impossible to fix upon any convenient place for the muster of a sufficient number of men for instruction. These remarks are particularly applicable to many parts of South Napier, Masterton, and Greytown, where, during my late inspection, I saw the great difficulty the Staff had to encounter in trying to train men under such disadvantageous circumstances. Whilst visiting these and other districts, I endeavoured to ascertain the opinions of the people regarding tho time and mode of training, and found that all differed ; some wishing to be trained for a fixed number of days consecutively in the year, for which they would expect to be paid; whilst others preferred to be drilled once a month, as now, or twice in one day every other month. At Napier the Militia have not been out for training and exercise since March, 1869; and, as the few drills they have undergone since they were called out in January have been performed without any addition to the Staff, they know but little. The Militia are composed of eight companies in North Napier, of which four are in the town, and the remainder at Puketapu, Meanee, Clive, and Havelock, amounting to 470 men; whilst South Napier has four companies—at Hampden, AVaipawa, Waipukurau, and Porangahau—amounting to 256 men. These have to meet at nineteen different places for drill, many of them at long distances from each other. It could scarcely be expected that much progress could be made in a short time in so extensive a district, where the Adjutant, with the assistance of only one drill-instructor, had large numbers of men under instruction for only two hours a month, and especially as many have had few opportunities of acquiring any previous knowledge of drill. The difficulty of teaching so many men with such a limited number of instructors is great, and is enhanced in this district by the scattered nature of the population.

REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR OF MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

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11EPOET OF THE INSPECTOR

In Rangitikei the Militia, consisting of 284 men, are divided into six companies, and have attended parade once a month. My inspection of this district took place in November, when the new Militia Act was only just coming into operation. Some at Marton and near the centres of population had a fair knowledge of the manual and platoon exercise, and in most cases evinced a disposition to learn their duty, but the greater portion of the efficient men had joined the Volunteers. The company at Manawatu paraded in good numbers, and their arms were clean, but they knew little of their drill. They have since formed a A 7olunteer Corps at Foxton, and more recently one at Palmerston, thus showing a desire to try and improve. The remarks which I have made regarding the Napier District apply in some measure to this, as regards the distances that men have to travel to attend parades. In Masterton the Militia (270 men) are divided into four companies, of which number two are at Masterton and Carterton, and the remainder subdivided into small detachments scattered over a large area of country. The two former companies mustered well, and had a fair knowledge of manual and platoon exercises. A large number of these men contested for district prizes. In Greytown the Militia (220 men) are divided into three companies, two of which are at Eeatherston and Greytown, and the other made up of detachments, as at Masterton. Owing to some mistake about the date of-my inspection, the Featherston company did not parade ; but that at Greytown drilled better than most Militia Companies, and altogether appear to evince a better spirit than I havo generally experienced. In Wellington District there are ten companies of Militia under training and exercise: —Karori, Kaiwarawara, Johnsonville. Ohariu, Porirua, Pauatahanui, and four at the fiutt—amounting to 370 men. They have attended monthly parades between July and March, except during the time they were excused from drill for harvest. Their knowledge of manual and platoon exercise (except one corps at the Hutt) was very fair, and quite equal to districts similarly situated; but, as in other places, nearly all the best men have joined the Volunteers. The Ohariu Company appeared to have been more attentive and drilled better than others ; and they are desirous of forming themselves into a A'olunteer Corps. There were twenty-two competitors for the district prizes ; but they have little chance with the Arolunteers, as their rifles are much inferior, and, in most instances, old and worn out. The arms in possession of the Militia generally are very bad, which almost debars that force from any chance of competing with the Volunteers at the Colonial Prize Firing, and in some measure accounts for the very small number of competitors at the annual meeting. I strongly recommend that an annual allowance of ammunition be supplied to such Militiamen under training as wish to practice, and that the firing take place under the supervision of the Staff. This might tend to encourage men to try and become good shots. To do this, however, it is absolutely necessary to supply more iron targets for each district. Great complaints of this deficiency were mado to me at every place I visited. With the limited means for instructing so many people, I venture to suggest the advisability of releasing the Third Class at once from training, thus affording the Staff' an opportunity of giving more attention to the others. In districts called out for " actual service," all classes might be allowed to retain their arms for self-defence, but exemption be given to Third Class from di ill. I feel quite confident that the task of imparting instruction to the Third Class men, who have had no previous knowledge of drill, is quite hopeless, being not only a waste of time to tho instructors, but a source of vexation to the men themselves. In the vicinity of the centres of population, I think more efficiency would be attained if a proportion of the people were drilled consecutively for a certain number of days at some season of the year which would least interfere with their ordinary occupations ; whilst a less rigid attendance might be enforced in the parts of districts where the population is widely scattered, as in Napier, Masterton, Rangitikei, Ac. This would enable the officers to become better acquainted with their duties, which is much required, and would also give the more attentive men an opportunity of acquiring a sufficient knowledge of their drill to entitle them to a certificate of exemption, in accordance with the Militia Regulations. At present, those men knowing a little drill are unavoidably kept back whilst the others are under instruction, and thus a feeling of carelessness and indifference is generated, which renders the task of the instructors very discouraging. The annexed return, marked A, shows the strength, on 31st March, of enrolled Militia who are called out either for actual service or training and exercise, and are armed. VOLUNTEERS. In June, 1870, the strength of the A 7olunteers in the Colony was 5,407, of which number 3,811 qualified themselves for capitation allowance. This number gradually increased till, on 31st March, 1871, there were 6,565, of which number 4,880 received capitation money, being an increase of 1,009 efficients in the year. (Vide Return marked G.) This excess may be attributed to the increased capitation allowance, which was raised from 255. for all corps to the original grant of £3 to Cavalry and Artillery, and 50s. to Rifle A rolunteers, as well as to the encouragement given to the whole movement by the liberal grant of the Legislature towards the Colonial Prize Firing. In the North Island, the Militia Act being in operation has also had the effect of increasing the numbers, and especially in some of the country districts. The annexed return marked C will show the percentage of enrolled and efficient A rolunteers in 1869, 1870, and 1871, by which it will be seen that the proportion of efficients has increased from 51 per cent.

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in 1869 to 74 per cent, in 1871. Having this year visited almost every district in both Islands, I will endeavour to report upon the state in which I found the several corps. Peovince of Auckland. In June, IS7O, the Arolunteers in this Province consisted of 1,663 enrolled members, which, by March, 1871, had increased to 1,767, divided amongst the following districts :— Auckland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 713 Wairoa ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 112 Waiuku ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 397 Poverty Bay ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 38 Bay of Plenty ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 85 Thames ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 422 1,767 Auckland District. The Auckland District comprises thirteen corps, of which four are Cavalry, one Artillery, one Naval and a battalion of six Rifle Companies. The whole spirit of volunteering had been growing very slack in this district for some time past; but since my inspection in April, 1870, there has been a very great improvement, and especially in the rifle companies forming the battalion. I attribute this in a great measure to the appointment of Major Gordon to the command of the district in January 1871, who has spared no pains to instruct the A rolunteers, and has displayed unusual zeal and attention to his duties. His efforts have been greatly assisted by several gentlemen joining the force, who had hitherto taken no interest in the matter; and now the ranks of tho battalion are being gradually filled up with young and active men. I inspected the battalion in May, and found it much improved in steadiness and general appearance since last year. The attendance was good, the few manoeuvres that were performed were creditable, and particularly when the number of new members is considered. Two or three of the companies were exercised at company and light infantry drill by their own captains, and showed a disposition to be attentive and make themselves creditable corps. I regret that I cannot speak so highly of the four Cavalry corps in this district. The Auckland and Prince Alfred Troops have been declining in numbers and attendance at parades since my last inspection, barely one-half of them having qualified for capitation money this year. This may be attributed in a great measure to the loss of their captain, who was most zealous, and the corps have not yet been able to replace him. The Otahuhu and Howick Troops are only in a tolerably good state ; many of their members have been irregular in attendance, but, as they expressed a wish to have the continual absentees struck off' the roll, and the two troops drilled together, I hope to see an improvement next year. The Auckland Artillery, which I found in good order last year, have increased in numbers and efficiency. They are a well-dressed, smart-looking body of men, and pay great attention to all their duties ; their practice was good, and of 55 enrolled members there was only one not qualified for capitation. I had no opportunity of seeing the Engineers, as they are quite newly raised. I regret that I am unable to notice improvement in the Naval corps, who appear to have almost neglected all drill, except the exercise of the battery guns at Fort Britomart, in which they showed some activity. They labour under some disadvantage in being composed principally of sailors, who are unable to attend except at irregular intervals when they are in port. I shall speak again of the rifle practice of this district when alluding to the prize-firing of the Colony, but I cannot here omit expressing great pleasure in being able to report that the great disadvantage under which Auckland has laboured for so many years will shortly be removed—viz., the/want of a good range near town. The old one was five or six miles off, which was a great hindrance to members of corps being able to go often to the butts, and quite prevented any attempt at class firing. The Provincial Government have now reserved a piece of land near Mount Eden, within easy access of all parts of the town, and have given a sum of money which has been supplemented by the General Governmsnt, for making a thorough good range. I trust this will be a means of encouragement to the Auckland Volunteers to go through a course of class-firing, and that next year I shall be able to report favourably on their progress in this important part of their duties. Wairoa. The AVairoa District has only two Volunteer corps, the " AVairoa Rifles " and " Pokcno Rangers." The former have improved in steadiness since last year; the latter appear willing to learn, but only drill fairly. Some allowance may be made for this company, as it is composed of the poorer class of the country settlers, who have to come long distances to parade, and have no drill-shed for wet weather. Waiuku. The Volunteers in this district consist of one Cavalry and six Rifle corps. The Waiuku Troop have been formed for some years, of the most influential and substantial settlers of the district, and have always had the reputation of being a good corps. They are well mounted, attentive to their drill, and take an interest in rifle practice. On reference to the attached Gazette, it will be seen that this troop won three out of the eight prizes allotted to corps armed with the breech-loading carbine in the whole Colony. The Rifle companies have made some little improvement since I saw them last year, but are still far from the state of efficiency in which I should wish to see them. They labour, however, under the same disadvantages as the AVairoa District, but even to a greater extent, as, from the formation of the country, and the rough roads, their means of communication prevent their meeting oftener than at the monthly inspection parades. 2

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6

EEPOET OF THE INSPECTOR

Their progress in drill is therefore unavoidably slow ; but they seem anxious to improve, and attend their monthly parades with much regularity. Great complaints were made of the want of iron targets. Many members of these corps expressed a wish to be assembled in the autumn for twelve consecutive days' drill, instead of once a month, to render themselves entitled to capitation allowance. Poverty Bay. In March there was only one troop of Cavalry Volunteers in the Poverty Bay district; but a company of Rifles has since been formed, which has been armed with the Snider rifle. Owing to tho disturbances in this district, the population has been very fluctuating, which has caused many changes in the members of the Cavalry, and for this reason the Commanding Officer requested me not to visit the district till next year, when he hoped to havo made more progress. Bay of Plenty. In March there was only one small corps of Cavalry Volunteers at Opotiki, which I did not think it necessary to inspect, as I was aware they had not recovered from their losses sustained on active service, when their Commanding Officer had suffered so much. A new corps of Cavalry Volunteers, and another of Rifles, have quite lately been formed at Tauranga. I saw the former soon after its services had been accepted, and, from the interest taken by its members at first, I hope it will be a credit to the district. f Thames. The Thames District is composed of six Rifle companies and ono Naval corps, amounting to about 420 men. Of this number, 256 have attended class-firing this year, but lam afraid that more attention has been paid to rifle practice than to drill. The day that I inspected them was so wet that I had not a good opportunity of seeing much of their movements: but it was evident that more attention is required in this respect, and I recommended the officers to endeavour to form themselves into an Administrative Battalion, in order that the several companies should meet more frequently. This district is one of the few in the North Island where any attempt has been made at class-firing, and a member of one of the corps was the winner of tho medal for the highest score in the Province of Auckland. The Naval corps made some good practice with their howitzers, and appeared to have been more attentive to their drill. Taeanaki. I did not inspect the Volunteers of this district, as the troop of Cavalry was the only corps, and had not been attending parades for some time ; they have since been disbanded, at their own request. I cannot do better than give an extract from Major Stapp's report in this matter : — " Several causes have occurred to damp the spirit of volunteering here. There has been scarcely any drill during the past year in consequence of the depression existing in the place, and people making new homes could not attend to it. The universal cry was, ' AYe have had so much soldiering and parading for the last ten years, that we want you to let us alone for a while; but, should anything occur, we will all turn out and defend the settlement.' " A corps of Rifle Volunteers has been formed quite lately. Province of Wellington. In June, 1870, the Volunteers of this Province numbered 1,176 enrolled members, which by March, 1871, had increased to 1,702, divided amongst the following districts:— Wanganui ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 237 Rangitikei ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 385 Wellington ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 803 Greytown ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 136 Masterton ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 141 1,702 Wanganui. In March, 1871, there were 237 Volunteers, —forming three Cavalry, and two Rifle corps, —two of which are newly raised. The spirit of volunteering had almost lapsed, probably from the same causes as at Taranaki, although in a less degree ; but on the proclamation of the new Militia Act in November last, and the appointment of Major Turner to command tho district, some effort appears to have been made to resume the movement. At my inspection in November, the Veteran corps was on pay, and employed in making the road between AVanganui and Patea. The AVanganui Troop have attended irregularly, and consequently their drill showed a great want of steadiness, but they had long felt the want of a drill instructor, which is now rectified. In addition to this serious drawback, the present members had to suffer for an old debt for clothing supplied to former members. This had not been paid, and was necessarily charged against the whole corps; but having now been adjusted, a better spirit is reported to exist amongst them. Rangitikei. This district contains four Cavalry and four Rifle corps, which on the 31st of March amounted to 385 men. The spirit of the Volunteers here appears to be very good, and I was much pleased with their

OF MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

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general appearance and state of efficiency, except the Turakina Rifle Company. There is an unusual proportion of Cavalry, who are generally well mounted, and take an interest in their work ; the members are principally occupied in farming operations, and, from their interests in the district, would be of great service on an emergency. Their breech-loading carbines are in a bad state of repair, and in fact are mostly worn out. As the men are nearly all employed in agricultural pursuits, and are much scattered, they can ill afford to go through any regular course of class-firing, but tho district returns prove they are good shots, and take much interest in the practice. Of the eight prizes for the breech-loading carbines, the first and third prizes were won by the Victoria Troop ; and at the Colonial Prize Firing in Auckland, all tho representatives (three) of this district took prizes, the total amount of which was the second highest in the North Island. Wellington. In March, the Volunteers of this district consisted of one Artillery, twelve Rifle, and four Cadet corps, amounting to SO3, including 138 Cadets. Of this number five Rifle and three Cadet corps have been formed since June, 1870. I am glad to be able to report upon the regular attendance of the members of the various corps, which has resulted in a marked, improvement in the drill and efficiency of the old corps, whilst the new ones have made very fair progress. The total of efficients is 765, out of 803 enrolled members. The Artillery are a very creditable corps, both in appearance and general efficiency. Their attendance is regular, and the way in which they work their guns shows that the members all take an interest and pride in their drill. Their shot and shell practice was good. The country corps, including those at the Hutt, deserve especial mention, as they attend with great regularity, notwithstanding the distances they have to come to their respective parades, and Lieut.Colonel Reader reports that it is quite the exception to have any absentees from the monthly inspection. In point of drill, man}' of the older corps compare favourably with those in other districts which are similarly situated. Their arms generally are in very good order, and several of the corps have provided themselves with the new regulation uniform, which is serviceable, and adds much to their appearance. Only a portion of the Artillery and one of the town companies have been through a course of class firing, but it must be borne in mind that nearly all the corps of this district are composed of country settlers, who can ill afford the time necessary for this purpose. There are, however, some very good shots amongst them, and much interest is evinced in rifle practice generally. For the District Prizes there were 302 competitors, and all the prizes (18) allotted, were won. On reference to the attached Gazette, it will be seen in the 9th set of Colonial Prizes, that three of the ten representatives of the North Island were furnished from AVellington, of whom two were second and third highest scorers; and that the district also won more money prizes than any other in the North Island. Greytown. There are three corps —one Cavalry, and two Rifle. The Greytown Cavalry have improved much in number and general appearance since last year, and have shown a disposition to make themselves acquainted with their drill. I cannot speak so favourably of the Greytown Rifles, who are not so good as last year. I was informed, however, that several of its most zealous members have lately joined the cavalry. The Featherston Company mustered well, and drilled more steadily than last year. Masterton. This district also has one Cavalry and two Rifl? corps. The AVairarapa Troop are very good ; but in consequence of the severe weather, they could not muster in such numbers as usual. The Masterton and Carterton Companies drilled silently and well, especially the latter. Corporal Bassett, of the Carterton Company, was again the best shot of the Province, and has won the medal two years consecutively. In both these districts there appears to be a good spirit; and though the occupations of the settlers prevent their devoting time for class-firing, they are otherwise interested in their general progress. Napier. This district contains one Cavalry, one Artillery, two Rifle, and one Cadet corps. Owing to the heavy floods, I was unable to inspect the AVairoa Company ; but Major Withers reports them as attentive ; and in consequence of the exposed position of the settlement, they have lately been armed with the Snider rifle. The Hawke's Bay Cavalry are not numerous, but are a useful corps, having on several occasions volunteered for active service. Many members live at some distance from town, and, as the drill is conducted by the Commanding Officer of the troop, without the assistance of a drill-instructor, much credit is due to him for their state. The Artillery are comparatively a newly-raised corps, and have felt the want of a thoroughly competent instructor, who is not easily supplied in the Colony for this branch of the service. They have shown a disposition to learn their duties, and, considering the above disadvantages, have made fair progress ; but their firing was not very good. The Napier Rifle Company has improved in appearance and drill. Several went through classfiring, and one member was qualified to represent his district at Auckland. The Cadet Corps is quite new, but from the manner in which the preliminary exercises of extension motions, facings, Ac, were performed, I think there is every chance of its being a success.

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REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR

Nelson. The movement in this Province has been gradually declining for some time, and I cannot say that I observed any improvement since last year. On the 31st of March there were one corps of Artillery, two of Rifles, and three of Cadets. I must here remark that the latter are more nominal than real; for of 155 enrolled, only 20 received full and 59 half capitation allowance, showing that their attendance was anything but regular. The muster of the Wakapuaka Artillery was unsatisfactory, and I felt it my duty to recommend the corps to resign its services, if they could not induce their members to be more attentive. This has since been done. The " City Rifles," which were lately formed from the old Company and City Artillery, do not appear to have made much progress, nor had they attended any parades for two months prior to my inspection. I was unable to see the " AVaimea " Company or " Motueka " Cadets, as, on the days I visited those places, the severe weather quite prevented any attempt at a muster. On inspecting the books of the latter, I found their attendance had been very small. On the whole, I regret to say that my inspection of this district was anything but satisfactory, and unless some marked improvement takes place during the ensuing year, I should feel it incumbent on me to recommend the disbandment of all the corps. There was no class-firing, but there are some good shots in the district; as will be seen on reference to the district firing in the Gazette, two representatives wero sent to Auckland, one of whom won an extra prize with a good score. Marlborough. I was prevented from visiting this Province, as I had left it till the last; and on my return from Nelson in June, I found that the continual bad weather and uncertainty of communication .would have occupied more time than I felt justified in devoting to it. In consequence of the small amount voted for the Province, the Volunteers have been debarred from receiving the same advantages as others in the way of capitation, drill-instructors, Ac. The Commanding Officer reports that the companies have attended parades fairly during the year, but only 78 out of 241 have qualified for capitation. AVith the aforementioned disadvantages, little more could be expected. On reference to the return of prize-firing in the Gazette, it will be seen that there was a good proportion of competitors for district prizes, and the average was fair. This Province also sent three representatives to Auckland, who won the second highest aggregate amount of prizes of any district in the Colony; one of these representatives carried off the second prize in the sixth set, the leading event of the meeting. Canterbury. This Province contains ono troop of Cavalry, three Artillery, two Engineers, seven Rifle, and five Cadet corps, amounting to about 730 Volunteers, of which number 616 qualified for capitation. In January, about 300 members of the various corps were encamped at Sumner for five days, during which time I remained with them, and took the opportunity of making my inspection of each corps separately. The Cavalry were well mounted, but their drill showed that they require more constant exercise together. Several new members have joined, and with the assistance of a new drill instructor, are reported to be making more progress since my inspection. The Christchurch, Lyttelton, and Timaru Artillery, all worked their guns well, and a spirit of rivalry exists which tends to be of service to all. They made excellent practice with shot and shell at three ranges. The Engineers and Rifle companies were not so proficient, except No. 6 Company, who appear to have paid more attention than the rest. Both officers and men derived benefit from the encampment; all cheerfully obeyed orders, and seemed desirous of making themselves acquainted with their various duties. Their conduct in camp was very good; and, in addition to the opportunity afforded them of being instructed on many points of duty which cannot be learnt at their ordinary parades, a spirit of harmony and good feeling is created, which cannot fail to contribute to the success of the whole movement. H_T I think some credit is due to Lieut.-Colonel Packe for having established an annual encampment in his district; and also to the officers and men who have so readily assisted him in carrying out all the arrangements successfully; many of them having come long distances, —and in the case of tho Timaru Artillery, no less than eighty miles. About one-fifth of the several corps have attended a course of class-firing; but the want of a suitable range near the town has been a serious obstruction to the shooting in this district, which furnished only two competitors out of six allowed for the Colonial Prize Firing at Auckland. Otago. The Province (exclusive of Southland) contains one Artillery, thirteen Rifle, and two Naval corps, besides Cadets, amounting together, on 31st March, to 1,140, of which number 845 were qualified for capitation allowance. The spirit of volunteering does not seem to have diminished, but, on the contrary, has extended io all parts of the Province. During the year new corps were formed at Hampden and Clutha; these have been succeeded by offers of services by the residents of Mount Ida, Tuapeka, and Queenstown. As the acceptance of these proposed corps so far inland would involve a considerable extra expenditure, their applications still remain under the consideration of the Government. At my inspection I found the Dunedin Artillery had lost none of their former efficiency either in appearance or drill, whilst their excellent shot and shell practice showed that they had not relaxed their attention to this practical part of their duties. AVith regard to their rifle practice, it will be seen, on reference to tho attached return marked I, that they are one of the best shooting corps in the Colony. The Dunedin Naval Arolunteers make good practice with their howitzers, and the Port Chalmers Naval Corps were steadier than last year.

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The Rifle companies were, on the whole, good at their drill, and have all paid great attention to rifle practice. A large proportion have attended a course of class-firing, —which is noticed more fully at the part of my report on the shooting generally throughout the Colony. One peculiarity worthy of observation is the great interest evinced in rifle practice by the country corps of this Province, and I must especially bring to your notice the East Taieri Company, composed of 43 enrolled members; of this number 41 attended class-firing, 33 becoming first-class men, and 28 marksmen. This company sent one of the most successful competitors (Private D. L. Christie) to the General Prize Firing in Auckland, who won the first prize in the fifth and sixth sets, the cup for the Martini-Henry match, the cup for the highest score in the match between North and South Islands, and the National Rifle Association Medal. He was champion in 1866, and was sixth on the list for the belt this year. I was prevented from inspecting the Dunedin Volunteers as a battalion, by the heavy rain on the day appointed. Southland. On 31st March there were two Rifle companies at Invercargill and Riverton, who were only tolerably good at drill, but much difficulty has been experienced in providing them with a qualified instructor. They have paid more attention to rifle practice, and several members have attended class-firing. They sent three representatives to Auckland, one of whom won four prizes, and another two. Westland. This district has three Rifle corps, at Hokitika, Ross, and Greymouth, consisting of 216 members, of whom 189 were qualified for capitation. They have improved since last year, and several members have attended class-firing. Their average in district firing is only second to Otago. Two representatives went to Auckland, one of whom won a prize and shot steadily in all the matches, being second of the South Island in the match between North and South, second in Martini-Henry match, and tenth in the aggregate for the belt. Rifle Practice. Before remarking on the General and District Prize Firing, I think it advisable to call your attention to return of class-firing marked B, from which it will be seen that only a small proportion of the Volunteers of the North Island have attended a course, in comparison with those of the South. This may be attributed to a variety of causes. In the North Island there has been a great difficulty in selecting suitable ranges; with the exception of the Auckland and Thames Districts, the Volunteers are almost entirely composed of country settlers, whose homes generally are at much greater distances from the rifle ranges than in the South. Moreover, in the North Island the permanent staff have heavy duties to perform in connection with the Militia, and have therefore less time to devote to the Volunteers ; to this must be added the scattered state of the population, which' in a great measure prevents men from giving the time necessary for class-firing, without interfering greatly with their daily occupations, and the staff are equally unable to fix upon days to suit all without interfering with their Militia duties. In Auckland hitherto, the range has been too far from tho town to admit of any class-firing, but this is now rectified, and I have no doubt tho Volunteers will avail themselves of their new range next year. At the Thames, where the population is concentrated and the range within convenient distance of the town, the numbers who have attended class-firing compare favourably with some of the districts similarly situated. The same remarks apply in a less degree to Napier. In Canterbury the proportion is smaller, but there has been much difficulty in obtaining suitable ranges. In Otago the system of class-firing has been carried on for some years; the result of this year shows a steady improvement over last, as shown in the return marked I. As all the corps appear to have taken an interest in this important part of their duty, I think it right to attach the return received from the Officer Commanding the district. This includes a few Cadets, the only ones in the Colony (except 15 in Canterbury) who went through a course. In Southland and Westland several members attended, the proportion of first class and marksmen of the latter district being very good. Colonial Prize Firing. The annual meeting took place in Auckland during the month of March ; the results, in detail, were published in Gazette No. 37, of 30th June, a copy of which is attached, and marked F. Tho shooting, on the whole, was very good, and the success of the meeting was mainly owing to the excellent range placed at the disposal of Government by the Hon. Mr. Farmer, M.L.C, who also presented a cup for competition with Snider rifles. There was a considerable increase this year in the number of company representatives, from whom the men to go to Auckland were selected. It will be seen, on reference to the Gazette, page 326, that the Province of Otago carried off more than half the prizes. The Champion Belt was won by Captain Wales, No. 1 Company Dunedin Rifles, after a wellcontested series of matches ; and it is but fair to add, that the next seven on the list were all from this Province. This is the fifth year that Otago has won the Belt consecutively, which must bo most encouraging to the members who attend class-firing so regularly, and should prove to others the advantage to be derived from it. The match between North and South Islands, by ten men on each side, who had made highest aggregate scores in previous matches, was won by one point by North Island, after a most interesting contest. 3

G.—No. 5b

10

REPORT OF THE INSPECTOR

Cadet Firing. Very great interest was taken in the practice of the 17 Cadets who went to Auckland. Their firing was very good, the Champion Belt being won by Sergeant Corry, of High School, Christchurch. In the extra-prize match, the winner, Tame, of High School, Dunedin, in firing off ties at 400 yards, showed great coolness, making three bull's-eyes and two centres out of five shots. Almost immediately after the meeting,, about 300 Cadets were enrolled, for the first time, in the City of Auckland. District Prizes. For the District Prizes the Colony was divided into 22 districts—l 3 in the North Island, 9 in tho South. There were 2,167 competitors against 1,207 last year, who made an average of 2589 points this year against 2243 in 1870, thus showing a general improvement in the average, although the number of competitors was nearly double. Carbine Prizes. A sum of £50 was set apart for prizes to corps armed with Terry's breech-loading carbine, the result of which appears at page 334 of Gazette. The number of competitors (179) is small in proportion to the number (1,200) armed with that weapon ; but the greater portion of these arms are unserviceable and nearly worn out, and many have preferred to fire with an Enfield rifle for the ordinary District Prizes. This is to be regretted, as the object of prize-firing is to encourage men to make themselves good marksmen with the class of arm issued to them for service. The Cavalry corps thoughout the whole Colony complained much of their arms, and alleged that it was of little use to try and become expert with such bad weapons, whilst at the same time they are placed at a great disadvantage in practising for General Government Prizes with Enfield rifles lent to them for that purpose. A suggestion was made by several corps, that a Champion Belt should be competed for by those only who are armed with the carbine. I think the proposition a reasonable one ; but no great result can be expected until a better arm is supplied. Cadet Prizes. A sum of £50 was also set apart for the Cadets of the Colony, to be competed for in their own districts. The number of competitors was 144, the best average being made by Wellington, which Province carried off no less than three out of eight prizes, the first being won by Brandon, of AVellington Grammar School, who made 54 points out of a possible 60. The arms in this competition were of a mixed character —carbines, short and medium Enfield rifles, Ac.; but a supply of new arms will shortly arrive, when no doubt a greater number will in future compete. Artillert Prizes. Some prizes were apportioned for the Artillery corps, armed with howitzers and Armstrong guns. Owing to the great expense which would necessarily be incurred, it was found impracticable to bring the various corps into competition on the same ground, and the firing was confined to the respective districts. This arrangement was made more with a view to encourage the several gun detachments than as a competitive trial, as the Volunteers of this branch of the service are required to devote more time and attention to their various duties, and have generally shown an extra amount of zeal and diligence in the performance of them. Cadets. The training of the youth of the Colony is a subject of so much importance, and one which has hitherto received so little attention, that 1 deem it my duty to bring the matter to your especial notice. In March 1871, there were 723 enrolled cadets, of whom 564 became entitled to capitation allowance by the present regulations. If, however, their training is to be made really effective, the regulations must be materially altered and made more stringent. The number of drills is not nearly sufficient, and they should be more consecutive, as boys quickly forget what they have learnt between the periods of instruction, when they are at long intervals. In order to give them a better carriage and generally improve their physical condition, a course of setting-up drill is most essential, before arms are placed in their hands. This cannot be now carried out with the very limited number of drills entitling them to capitation allowance. Detached corps of Cadets are not likely to succeed; they should be either drilled at school or attached to an adult corps who are interested in their welfare. This latter plan has been adopted in Auckland, where some 160 cadets have become a contingent of the battalion, and are reported to be making steady progress. If schools are to be drilled, some effort should be made to enforce military instruction as a part of the education of the boys ; for, when imposed on them out of school hours, they are likely to regard it as tedious and uninteresting, at all events until arms are placed in their hands. The return marked E shows the strength, distribution, and proportion of efficients who drew capitation to 31st March, also the strength on 31st May, by which it appears an increase of 543 took place in that time; of this number about 400 are at Auckland and the Thames, which is to be attributed to the visit of the Southern representative Cadets to those places during the prize-firino-meeting in March. The total number now enrolled is 1,266. These are the numbers capable of bearing arms, but there are other boys under training at school in Otago not included in this, as the Commanding Officer reports 445 under training, although the strength on the above return is 227. None of the corps at Auckland, Thames, Rangitikei, Greytown, or Southland, were formed when I visited those districts. At Wellington I saw a few, attached to the A^eteran corps, and some at the Hutt, who give promise of being smart lads. The Grammar School paraded for my inspection immediately before the holidays ; but stormy weather prevented my seeing them, and I had no other opportunity. I saw a few at Crofton Grammar School, who were not far advanced. In Nelson I was informed that the Cadets were formerly in an excellent state, but their present condition shows a great falling off, and few mustered for my inspection.

OE MILITIA AND VOLUNTEEES.

11

G.—No. sb.

In Canterbury a good number have become efficients this year, but I did not see the schools, as I was there during the Christmas vacation. At Otago I saw about 100 boys of the district schools who had a fair knowledge of some of the preliminary drills, but they all require more frequent parades. There is a great scarcity of arms for Cadets at present, but 800 carbines will soon arrive from England, which, with those now in the Colony, will be sufficient for the present number of boys. If however, any considerable addition is made to their strength, more arms must be obtained. From the interest taken by the representative Cadets in their firing at Auckland, it was evident they had already acquired a taste for rifle practice, and were all most anxious to do their best. This spirit of emulation should be encouraged as far as possible, as it must tend to create a feeling of confidence and self-reliance, which increases year by year. It is scarcely necessary for me to point out, that the Cadets are the real source from whence our best Volunteers will be recruited in future ; and that lads who, at such an early age, derive practical proofs of the benefits of their training, will enter the ranks of adult corps with zeal and earnestness. Arms. The Enfield rifles on issue to the Volunteers are very much better than those in possession of the Militia, but it would be desirable if an improved arm could be supplied to the whole force. The Commanding Officer of Otago reports that the arms in his district are " unserviceable for accurate shooting." This might be considered correct if comparison were drawn between the merits of the Enfield and Snider or other improved breech-loading rifles ; but the results reported to have been attained by the men who went through class-firing in that Province, and the performance generally of the Otago A rolunteers at the General Prize Firing shows that their rifles can scarcely be considered " unserviceable for accurate shooting," and would bear favourable comparison with those issued to Volunteers throughout the Colony. I have already remarked on the bad state of the breech-loading carbines of the Cavalry, who also require at least 300 swords. Clothing. By the regulations issued last year, it was provided that there should be a similarity in the dress of the several branches of the Volunteer Force, that of the Rifles being grey cloth. Mr. AVebb, of Nelson, undertook to supply by contract a serviceable article, manufactured in the Colony; with which twenty-two corps have been furnished, to the amount of 6,000 yards. Several corps, however, have objected to the colour, and have requested to be allowed to wear a uniform of their own selection, subject to the approval of the Government. I consider the new uniform to be not only a neat but a very serviceable dress. The Dunedin Battalion are still wearing scarlet, whilst the Auckland retain the blue. Capitation. The return marked D shows the strength on 31st of March, 1871, with the number of " efficients " for the last " Volunteer Year," by which it appears there were then 6,568 enrolled, of whom 4,880 were qualified for capitation, the percentage in North Island being 75, and that of the South 73. As there has been a considerable addition to these numbers since, I append Forms G and H. The return marked G shows the number of corps in their several districts on 31st of May, amounting to 164, including 35 of Cadets. The return marked H shows the number of Volunteers to be 7,633 including 1,266 Cadets. In order to compare the numbers in 1870 and 1871,1 attach Form X, showing the strength in the several Provinces in each of these years, by which you will perceive that the increase in 1871 over 1870 amounts to 1,408 adults, and 818 cadets, the greater proportion of whom are in Auckland and Wellington. The restoration of the old rate of capitation last year has materially contributed to the increase in the number of the Volunteers as shown in Form C. It will again be seen, on reference to Form X that notwithstanding the increase of enrolled members, the percentage of " efficients " is also largely increased. In his Annual Report, the Commanding Officer of Otago has suggested a change in the qualification for capitation allowance, by giving a small proportion of present rate to those who only attend parades as now, and the balance to such as attend a course of class-firing, in certain proportions according to their final classification. This might perhaps be done in the case of corps in the large towns, where a range is easily obtained in their vicinity ; but I do not think it would be fair to enforce this system, as proposed, in many of the country districts, for the reasons I have already given in a former part of my report. Class Firing. Without doubt, a system of class-firing would tend much to improve the general efficiency of the force, but the adoption of some modified course would be necessary to make it equitable to all corps, whose local circumstances are so widely different. A small Manual of Squad and Company Drill, adapted for the use of the Militia and Volunteers, has been lately issued, which will be of great service to those under instruction. I cannot conclude my report without favourably mentioning the general zeal of the officers and non-commissioned officers of the permanent staff of the various districts, on whose exertions so much of the general efficiency of the Force must depend. I have, Ac, Philip Harington, Lieut.-Colonel, The Hon. Donald McLean, Wellington. Inspector of Militia and Volunteers.

G.—No. sb.

12

REPORT OE THE INSPECTOR

TABLES EEFEEEED TO IN THE FOKEGOING EEPOET.

Table A. RETURN showing the Strength (all ranks) of the NEW ZEALAND MILITIA called out for Actual Service, and for Training and Exercise.

Table B. RETURN showing the Number of VOLUNTEERS who passed through Class Firing, with their Final Classification, 1870-71.

ASDFKJHAKLSFJ

Steength OX 31st March, 1871. Nos. Passed Class Fieino. Final Classitk JATIOH. H m W a < DlSTBICT. No. of No. of Corps. Men. 3rd Class. 2nd Class. 1st Class. Auckland Wairoa Waiuku Waikato Taranaki } Patea j Wanganui Kangitikei Wellington Grey town Masterton Napier Porerty Bay ... Bay of Plenty... Thames 713 112 397 131 237 385 803 136 141 232 38 85 422 2 No return. 2 68 31 28 9 5 6 256 64 66 126 23 North Wand ... 3,832 10 324 86 91 135 28 Nelson Marlborough ... Canterbury Otago Southland Westland 292 241 730 1,141 116 216 10 15 2 3 151 524 97 74 39 94 15 10 99 130 50 8 13 300 32 56 "'i 209 43 South Island ... 2,736 311 846 158 287 401 259 All New Zealand 6,568 1,170 253 381 536 287

G.—No. sb.

Table C. STATEMENT showing the Numbers of VOLUNTEERS on the Rolls; the Numbers who drew Capitation; and the Amounts in 1869, 1870, and 1871.

4

OE MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS,

13

1869— Bate 25s. 1870— Rate 25a. 1871— Bate, £3 and 50s. Pboyince. « fe o a o'S, Mi Is Remauks. id l§ Amount. Amount. 2~ Amount. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. Auckland Taranaki Wellington Hawke's Bay 1,435 212 1,419 189 689 16 717 159 833 7 6 20 0 0 888 2 6 182 10 0 1, C63 76 1,176 172 1,256 897 59 1,550 15 0 1,132 10 0 73 2 6 1,767 131 1,702 232 1,280 1,434 168 3,216 10 0 90 0 0 3,077 17 6 352 17 6 Estimated but not required. North Island... 3,255 1,581 1,924 0 0 3,087 2,112 2,759 7 6 I 3,832 I I 2,882 I 6,737 5 0 Percentage of Efficients. 1869. 1870. 1871. 0 Nelson Marlborougli Canterbury Otago Southland "Westland 418 301 805 954 148 277 235 295 10 0 * 238 178 692 899 142 171 191 231 5 0 # 292 241 730 1,141 116 216 187 78 616 845 83 189 360 17 6 218 15 0 1,441 10 0 1,733 12 6 207 10 0 200 0 0 North Island South Island ... 48 68 75 ... 55 73 73 473 585 129 195 |295 6 3 731 5 0 158 2 6 213 15 0 508 740 115 145 628 15 0 930 0 0 143 15 0 181 5 0 New Zealand ... 51 70 74 (Say). South Wand... 2,903 1,617 1,723 18 9 2,320 1,699 2,115 0 0 2,736 1,998 4,162 5 0 All New Zealand 6,158 3,198 3,647 18 9 5,407 3,811 4,874 7 6 6,568 4,880 10,899 10 0 * No yote. t Half-rate onl; Toted.

G-.—No. 56,

14

REPORT OE THE INSPECTOR

Table D. RETURN showing the Strength of NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEER FORCE on the 31st March, 1871, with the Number of "Efficients" for the Volunteer Year ending same date (including Cadets).

Table E. RETURN showing the Strength of CADETS of NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEER FORCE on 31st March, 1871, with the Number of "Efficients" for the Volunteer Year ending same date.

H tn r-i CO r-< Ifficiex' Total per province. Pbovikce. DlSTBICT. Total. 3 I "a Kemaeks. 1 Auckland Auckland Wairoa Waiuku Poverty Bay Bay of Plenty Thames 713 112 397 38 85 422 131 237 385 803 136 141 232 402 73 318 49 11 18 451 84 ' ... 336 Taranaki "Wellington 32 325 52 32 377 1,767 131 122 305 765 108 134 1,702 168 232 1,280 Wanganui Eangitikei Wellington Grey town Mastcrton 50 230 543 106 132 150 72 75 222 2 2 18 / Hawke's Bay 1,431 168 = 75 per cent. North Island 3,832 2,361 521 2,882 3,832 2,882 Nelson Marlborough Canterbury Otago Southland Westland 292 241 730 1,141 116 216 181 78 532 766 83 139 6 84 79 187 '. 292 78 241 G16 730 845 1,141 83 116 189 216 187 78 616 845 83 189 50 = 73 per cent. South Island 2,736 1,779 219 1,998 2,730 I 1,998 All New Zealand ... ! ! 6,568 4,140 740 4,880 , G,568 4,880

si 'ficiex: :s. To: ?AL. g i—I CO O P O2 rno"m*CE. DlSTIUCT. to "3s | "S CD s Eejiarks. Total. Auckland Auckland Wairoa Waiuku Poverty Bay Bay of Plenty Thames 300 Taranaki Wellington Wanganui Rangitikei Wellington Greytown Masterton i'oo 39 138 £9 41 B4 29 125 60 129 21 Hawke's Bay ... 47 North Islam 177 70 84 154 177 154 = 87 per cent. 657 Nelson Marlborough ... Canterbury Otago Southland Westland 155 20 53 31 111 84 227 180 59 ii 19 79 31 101 199 158 48 105 227 71 South Islai 546 315 95 410 546 410 = 75 per cent. 609 All New Zealand 723 385 179 564 723 564 1,266

(>.— No. Sb,

OE MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

15

Table P. {Q-azette, No. 37, 1871.)

Table G. RETURN showing the Number of VOLUNTEER CORPS on the 31st May, 1871.

Table H. RETURN showing the Strength of NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEER FORCE on the 31st May, 1871.

DlSTEICT OB PEOVINOE. %■ Q -1 S M H 13 IP O P O m a 9 Total. Conrs pee Peovince. Adult. Cadet. Total. Auckland Wairoa ... Waiuku... Waikato Thames ... Bay of Plenty Poverty Bay 4 1 1 1 1 1 ! 6 2 17 3 7 1 7 3 2 11 28 3 7 1 9 3 2 1 i 5 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 2 2 40 13 53 Taranaki Patea — ] (.Wellington Wanganui Rangitikei Wellington Greytown ... Masterton 1 4 4 1 1 1 3 6 13 2 2 2 7 10 14 3 3 2 5 1 2 2 2 7 12 19 4 3 4 4 1 1 i 89 8 47 Napier ... Wairoa ... 1 l 1 1 3 1 1 4 1 4 "i 5 : Total, North Island ... 24 3 55 3 87 22 109 87 22 109 Nelson ... IMarlborongh Canterbury Otago ... Southland Westland 1 1 3 1 "2 2 5 7 13 2 3 2 3 5 13 16 2 3 3 2 5 2 1 6 7 is 18 3 3 3 5 18 16 2 3 3 2 5 2 1 6 7 18 18 3 3 Total, South Island ... 1 5 2 32 2 42 18 55 42 j:j 55 All New Zealand 25 8 1 4 87 5 129 35 164 129 35 164

Province. District. Cavalry. Artillery. Engineers. Eifles. Naval. Total. Cadets Total. Auckland Auckland Wairoa Waiuku Waikato Poverty Bay ... Bay of Plenty Thames New Plymouth Patea Wanganui Eangitikei Wellingt on ... Greytown Masterton Napier and Wairoa ... 173 22 48 70 36 85 63 67 525 110 358 105 933 132 406 70 76 145 438 75 93 264 402 649 140 146 257 300 1,233 132 400 70 76 145 538 75 93 264 462 778 161 146 304 Taranaki Wellington 37 35 97 177 41 40 60 317 38 58 167 225 586 99 110 134 "77 100 63 60 129 21 Hawke's Bay ... 41 36 62 61 "47 Total, North Island 4,883 919 187 111 2,827 182 4,226 657 Nelson Marlborougli ... Canterbury Otago and Southland... Westland 70 27 157 63 "92 110 187 286 769 207 137 187 605 1,005 207 158 48 105 298 295 235 7io j 1,303 ! 207 173 Total, South Island 173 2,750 70 247 92 1,559 2,141 609 Total, all few Zealand ... 989 434 203 4,386 355 6,367 1,266 7,633

G.—No. Sb,

16

REPOET 0E THE INSPECTOR

Table I. ANALYSIS of Class Firing of OTAGO VOLUNTEERS for the Year ended 31st March, 1871.

ENROLLED StRESOTII. Practised. Final o FintPeriod, 3rd Class. First Period, 2nd Class. Classification. Efficient. Non-efllcient, 1st Class. CORPS. i I a 1 S 3 i BEMAEKS. 0. PS r/3 00 u o 0> If ■ 1 OJ 03 "I I ■<■. '3 si ■5 u p to g i — a — -5 S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Band and'Staff Dunedin Artillery N To. 1 City Guards Rifles No. 2 Dunedin Scottish Bruce ... North Dunedin South District Waikare East Taicri WestTaieri Oamaru Waikouaiti Hampden 4 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 1 4 4 4 4 1 3 4 1 4 2 1 1 1 ... 18 35 38 35 39 37 31 23 34 35 46 35 ... 17 9 10 8 15 13 15 2 19 8 4 42 20 60 56 53 55 58 47 41 43 60 72 52 42 2 33 49 87 43 39 16 25 41 3S 40 16 87 1,706 2,151 1,463 1,720 1,839 676 1,218 1,735 1,791 1,498 643 43-50 51-G9 50-02 51-37 4000 42-02 j 4225 4864 42-31 4713 3745 40-18 2 29 43 21 20 32 10 24 34 33 22 12 73 1,172 1.6G5 980 652 1,193 416 936 1,273 1,198 744 327 36-50 40-41 3872 46-66 32-60 3723 41-60 3900 3744 36-30 33-81 3725 1 25 26 17 6 22 7 19 28 27 13 5 29 698 748 429 220 693 255 499 918 789 393 98 2900 27-92 28-76 25 23 36-66 31-50 36-42 25-25 32-77 29-22 30-23 19-fiO ■■' ; •■■ . 6 e 2 2 4 29 12 37 7 20 21 I 16 6 27 4 10 2 ! 23 3 33 10 28 13 16 9 7 1 22 23 12 6 17 7 15 28 24 12 3 1 5 1 1 11 10 ii ... 14 15 16 17 Clutha Dunedin Naval Port Chalmers Naval... Cadet Rifles 3 4 3 3 3 4 6 43 59 76 91 40 10 14 127 89 79 97 227 12 21 66 57 374 1,009 2,450 956 3116 48-04 3712 1677 48-07 5 14 41 11 122 581 1,427 230 24-40 41-50 34-80 20-90 13 26 4 333 745 54 2501 2865 13-50 4 ... ... . ?' 1 7 14 15 33 10 4 12 25 2 Newly raised corpsnot practiced. Newly raised corps. ! 17 43 ( 127 too young t( (_ practice. Total 45 I I 60 4 G75 1 I 22 353 353 12,989 3679 I 1 239 6,901 28-77 i 130 300 1,165 524 21,419 209 i I Final Classification. Members practised. Marksmen. 3rd Class. 2nd Class. 1st Class. 1870 (including Cadets) 1871 ditto 476 524 (11 91 138 130 274 300 156 209 Cadets,— 1870 1871 15 57 8 18 7 10 "4 " 2 J. "Bath gate, Major, Commanding Otago District. John James Atkinson, Major, District Adjutant and Instructor.

OE MILITIA AND VOLUNTEERS.

17

G.—No. sb.

Table K. RETURN showing the Strength of the NEW ZEALAND VOLUNTEER FORCE in the several Provinces on the 30th June, 1870, and 31st May, 1871.

1870. 1871. Pbovincb. (3 i *Efa 1 1 Total. 1 Grand Total. t IT O ■ ■< E P3 i l Total. Grand | Total. Remabes. i i ! "i Auckland 327 40 90 1,088 178 , 1,663 1,663 434 : 63 ill 1,410 | 182 2,200 400 2,600 Recapitulation. Taranaki 37 39 76 76 72 55 127 127 1870. Men. Cadete. North Island ... 3,027 60 South Island ... 1,932 388 Total ... 4,959 448 Total. 3,087 2,320 5,407 Wellington 429 47 640 1,116 60 1,176 351 I 63 1,228 1,642 210 1,852 i Hawke'a Bay .. 49 23 100 172 172 68 61 134 257 47 304 Nelson 77 84 161 77 238 27 lid i ... 137 158 295 Maryborough ... 120 120 58 178 187 187 48 235 1871. North Island ... 4,226 657 South Island ... 2,141 609 4,883 2,750 Canterbury 40 112 43 380 575 117 692 70 | 157 92 286 ; ... 605 105 | 710 Otago 63 563 137 | 763 136 899 [ ... 63 3 769 \ 173 1,005 298 i 1,303 Total ... 6,367 1,266 7,633 Southland 142 142 142 Increase in 1871 over 1870. North Island ... 1,199 597 South Island ... 209 221 1,796 430 Westland 171 171 171 207 207 207 Total ... I I I 'i Total increase 1,408 818 2,226 882 362 133 3,267 315 I 4,959 4,959 448 5,407 1,016 434 203 4,386 355 4,386 6,367 1,266 7,633